“I’m so proud of this graduating senior group,” Huskies coach Jason Fitzgerald said. “They started as low as they could have been and to climb as far as they went is a testament to their hard work and dedication.”

The players were dedicated. So was the coach. Fitzgerald is the 4A Slope Coach of the Year, as voted on by his peers.

“I think that’s just a testament to who he is,” Currie said. “His life is volleyball. He spends hours watching film. Everything he does is about volleyball. He deserves it.”

Saints pick up honors

Vail Christian’s world did not stop spinning after Saturday’s disappointing season-ending loss to Dove Creek at the 1A state tournament.

By Monday’s awards banquet at Vail Christian confirmed it.

“Once everyone stopped and thought about it, they realized how far they went,” Saints coach Cathy Alexander said. “You can’t let once bad match ruin an entire season. For the younger players, it’s becoming more of an inspiration.”

Senior middle-blockers Kristen Currey and Celia Smith are the Saints’ representatives on the all-league team. Smith is also all-state.